Mayor Al Gameros

MAYOR MONTHLY REPORT

MAY 2025

CLARIFYING ZONING CODES AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS:  There have been some misunderstandings on social media lately about zoning codes and conditional use permits.  I want to take a moment to provide clear, accurate information on these important topics. 

Zoning codes are laws set to regulate how land can be used.  They ensure that different types of land, such as residential, commercial, and industrial areas are properly placed to avoid conflicts.  Zoning codes are essential for maintaining public safety, promoting community health, and protecting property values.

In some cases, a property owner may wish to use their land in a way that does not fit within the standard zoning laws.  In these cases, they may sometimes apply for a Conditional Use Permit, or a CUP.  This is essentially a special permission granted by the City, with clear conditions to protect the neighborhood and maintain the integrity of the zoning laws.  A conditional use permit allows specialized use on a case-by-case basis, if it doesn’t negatively impact the surrounding community.  These conditions are also outlined within the zoning code.  City staff works with the applicants during the CUP application process to find ways to work within the zoning code, to make these projects fit within zoning standards.  The CUP then acts as a “contract” between the local government and the property owner, providing flexibility in land use, while also maintaining the integrity of zoning laws.

I recommend if you are planning on starting a new business, project, purchase property, or have questions about zoning, permits, or code, I ask that you make an appointment with Community Development Department and schedule a pre-development (PDM) meeting so you have the correct information you need to move forward.  Our team will help the applicant through any process needed to make sure that their business or project is successful. 

BUILDING CODE EFFECTIVENESS GRADING SCHEDULE:  Council heard a presentation from Community Development Department Direcgtor and Building Inspector, Tony Manfredi, on the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule having to do with Insurance Services Organization (ISO).  Globe’s building department was audited by ISO for the first time in our city’s history.  This is a comprehensive review that included the following points;  Building Code Amendments, Commitment to Code Enforcement, Permitting Process, Inspection Process, Policies, Zoning/Municipal Codes, Staff Training, Staffing-Professionals/Certifications/Work Experience, and Disaster Preparedness.  We are proud to announce that Globe’s score is a 4 that affects both residential and commercial insurance rates.  A rating between 1 and 5 is considered to be excellent  and disaster resistent.  This rating brings credibility to Globe that benefits our residents and businesses with lower insurance rates.  The rating also increases property values, attracts developers, increases eligibility to more grants, and continues our efforts in building a strong economic base for the future of our city.  

GENERAL FUND BUDGET:  City Manager, Paul Jepson, presented FY 2025-2026 General Fund revenue projections.  The sales tax projections show a continued increase in activity of visitors and tourist in comparison to previous years.  Last year’s 8% revenue growth exceeded our annual conservative projections of 2.5%.  Our total general fund revenue projections for FY-2026 are $18,029,02.00 which includes a dedicated $3,000,000.00 to the city’s contingency rainy day fund balance.  This does not include any Enterprise or HURF Funds.  

APS TOWNHALL SCHEDULED:  Arizona Public Service (APS) has scheduled a Town Hall meeting for the residents of Globe, Miami, Claypool, and the Top of The World to learn about their Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Wildfire Mitigation Plan.  The Townhall is scheduled for Thursday, June 12th at 6 pm at the Bullion Plaza Gymnasium, 150 N. Plaza Circle in Miami.  All residents are urged to attend this presentation to learn more about this program as they prepare for the wildfire season and what you can do as a resident to be ready in case of an emergency and the possibility of the power being shut off for up to 24-48 hours.    After the presentation, there will be an opportunity to ask questions. 

GRANT DOWNTOWN SIDEWALK:  Council approved for staff to move forward with a grant application with the Arizona Department of Transportation for the Broad Street Sidewalk Replacement Program.  The amount of the grant is for $1,091,810.00 with a city match of $60,532.00.  The design of the project has already been paid for by grants and completed, which was the first step to be able apply for additional funding for the completion of the project. 

ADULT FITNESS EQUIPMENT:  The City of Globe has completed the installation of the outdoor Adult Fitness equipment for the public to use.  The equipment location is above the Skate Park next to the basketball and tennis courts.  The equipment sets on a cement slab as part of the project and provides for exercises for strength, flexibility, and cardio.  The city extends a hugh thank you to BHP Copper for providing the funding for this equipment. 

COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR:  This month’s Coffee With The Mayor is scheduled for June 18that 1 pm, at Copper Cities Coffee, 1100 N. Broad Street, Suite F.  This is an opportunity for residents to attend and ask questions and get the most recent accurate information about any city projects past, present, or pending.  This event will continue every third Wednesday of the month at 1 pm.  Thank you again to Copper Cities Coffee for hosting this event.